The National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) has called on the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to reconsider its decision to suspend the licenses of two ValueJet pilots. The pilots were suspended following a security breach at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on August 5, involving Fuji artiste Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1. KWAM 1’s actions disrupted a Lagos-bound ValueJet flight, prompting the NCAA to take disciplinary action against the pilots.
NAAPE’s national president, Galadima Abednego, stated that while the pilots should have acted with optimal discretion, KWAM 1’s unruly behavior was the primary cause of the incident. Abednego condemned KWAM 1’s actions, describing them as “crude, unruly behavior and arrogant display”. However, he urged the NCAA to review its decision and restore the pilots’ licenses, emphasizing that aviation safety and security are paramount.
NAAPE has also called for a transparent, unbiased, and open investigation into the incident. Abednego emphasized that the authorities should lay the blame on KWAM 1 and make him face the full wrath of the law to prevent future incidents. He noted that the intense provocation caused by KWAM 1’s actions stretched the tolerance of seasoned pilots with unblemished records.
After initially denying any wrongdoing, KWAM 1 posted on social media expressing regret for his unruly behavior. The NCAA had announced that KWAM 1 would be put on a no-fly list for holding passengers and pilots hostage. Abednego urged ValueJet to continue providing full support to the captain and first officer.
The incident has sparked controversy, with many questioning KWAM 1’s actions and the NCAA’s response. As the investigation unfolds, NAAPE’s call for a transparent and unbiased probe may shed more light on the circumstances surrounding the incident. The association’s emphasis on aviation safety and security underscores the importance of maintaining strict protocols in the industry.
